Government launches winter plan

The government has launched a new plan to help keep people warm and healthy over the winter months.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley launched the cross-government initiative, which is designed to help the NHS and local communities prepare for the colder months ahead.

As part of the plan, an extra £10 million will be made available to help those at risk of fuel poverty.

A new £20 million fund will also be created to help local authorities and charities address cold housing.

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In addition, the Met Office and Health Protection Agency will run a Cold Weather Plan, advising people on how to stay healthy during the winter months.

Members of the public will also be able to find information on keeping safe and well on the 'Getting Ready for Winter' website.

'We want everyone to get ready for winter and be prepared before temperatures drop,' Mr Lansley said.

'Older people and those with long-term illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the cold and we need to be aware - within families, in communities and across the NHS - of how we can help others when the winter temperatures drop.'

Michelle Mitchell, charity director of Age UK, welcomed the initiative and described the Cold Weather Plan as 'a very important step in the right direction'.

She added: 'Age UK will be building on this with its own winter campaign to help vulnerable older people live well through the cold months of the year.'

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